Wedding Trends 2017

In the ever changing world of wedding trends, one thing never changes…..your unique personality and taste! While it is fun to stay current on what’s hot and what’s not, don’t be afraid to be the trend setter.

Years ago, brides had to be so careful not to break tradition, but today almost anything goes. As a wedding consultant I encourage brides to think outside of the box and add elements to their wedding they are excited about and that reflect their distinctive character as a couple.

Some popular trends for 2017 include welcome gift lounges. This trend takes those welcome gift bags for your guests to the next level. Instead of stuffing countless bags with goodies to greet all of your wedding guests with, let them do the work. Set up a gift lounge in the hotel where your guests are staying with swag like snacks, drinks, and local treats, and let them create their own gift bags. You can even hang out in the lounge yourself to greet everyone as they arrive.

Millennials have come to expect instant gratification, so virtual planning has taken over. Most brides have a private Pinterest page to share with their wedding vendors for a look inside their heart and mind, to gain an understanding of their style. Custom Snapchat geofilters and 3D printing to personalize cake toppers, place cards, favors, wedding bands and more are increasingly popular. We’ve also seen more couples live-streaming their ceremony for guests that cannot attend. The ability to have your guests take and share photos in real time has accelerated from facebook posts to apps and sites such as Snapshot, Wedding Photo Swap, Wedpics and others.

In décor, color is making a comeback in most weddings. Gone are the days of burlap and lace and muted tones. Hot colors are navy or gray with a citrus or pastel accent and even primary colors. Elaborate entrances to the ceremony and reception are big. Initial impact to wedding guests include ombre rose petal aisles, adding oversize potted trees and shrubbery for an enchanted forest look or wine barrels with floral toppers are increasingly en vogue.

Floral chandeliers, low hanging string or café lights in a variety of sizes gives the ceiling area a soft and romantic look and can make a barn or canopy look amazing. Once the guests have gone home, don’t toss the flowers. Donate to a hospital or nursing home to spread joy to others.

What do guests remember? The food and fun! Late night snacks are becoming more of a ‘must do’ as opposed to simply an add-on. Comfort food is the key here. Mac and cheese, truffle fries, pizza, sliders and even taco trucks turn the end of the evening into an exciting surprise. Not to mention soaking up a little alcohol before the drive home.

While traditional wedding cakes are still expected by most, a “cutting cake” surrounded by other desserts such as cheese cake, donuts, individual crème brulee, pies, etc. are growing in popularity. Naked cakes, which are unfrosted (or partially frosted) and simply adorned with berries or fresh flowers, are trending as well.

Replacing photo booths for some means on-site illustrators who capture the night through live sketches that you and your guests can take home. Four-legged friends will play an even bigger role in upcoming nuptials. From bunnies and donkeys to llamas and even pigs couples having rustic barn weddings are incorporating farm animals into the wedding day

In formal wear, removable skirts are gaining momentum. The bride can have a sheath dress look and a ball gown look for much less than the cost of two dresses. Bare shoulders, plunging necklines and large bows are all over bridal runways.

In a shift that focuses more on giving than getting, couples are embracing charity registries, which allows guests to make a donation in their honor. This is especially popular in established households.

Today’s couples are concerned with the impact their celebrations are having on the environment, opting for greener alternatives for food, flowers, invitations, party favors and more.

Weddings continue to be the ultimate personal statement for couples, completely customized to feature their favorite foods, florals and traditions. Be creative and make your wedding memorable by incorporating something new and you!